Second Sunday of Advent

“In a time of destruction, create something.”
Maxine Hong Kingston

PRELUDE: Carol of the Bells
Ukrainian/John Purifoy
©1997 Lorenz Publishing Co.

GREETING:

PSALM 130 Karen Armor
(from Christine Robinson’s Psalms for a New World)

Out of my depths, O God, I cry to you.
Are you there?
I know I’m far from perfect,
but if perfection were required,
who would pass muster?
So, I wait and I hope;
like a sentry waits for the morning.
Help me to stay alert, and keep an open heart
for whatever comes.

PRAYER

Loving, guiding, presence, we do not always face our days with clear discernment and courage. Sometimes we retreat, and hold ourselves closed, for we are overwhelmed. With each breath we draw this day may we open our hearts and still our minds and grow ever more awake to the world around us. With every step we take this day may we move forward with intention and gratitude for all that the day has to teach us. May we learn discernment as we watch for signs of God’s presence in our lives. May we learn to see with eyes of love and offer a measure of hope to the world we encounter.

HYMN: #23 Angels, We Have Heard on High

INTRO

SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 40: 1-11 Karen Winchester

HYMN #53 What Child Is This

SERMON

COMMUNION Gather Us In
Mary Haugen/Mark Hayes
© 2015 Lorenz Publishing Co

INVITATION

PRAYER

INSTITUTION

THANKSGIVING

PRAYER MUSIC A Stable Lamp Is Lighted
David Hurd/Edwin T. Childs
©2017 by GIA Publications, Inc.

COMMUNITY PRAYER

QUESTION and BENEDICTION

POSTLUDE Gather Us In
Marty Haugen/ Paul Carlson
©2006 by GIA Publications, Inc.